Reports have circulated in recent weeks that there are concerns about James fitting alongside Embiid on multiple levels, but Sixers officials have shot down such claims privately. The Sixers have long been optimistic about the relationship between Simmons and James in particular, but in recent weeks team representatives have expressed additional optimism to PhillyVoice about James’ respect for Embiid and Simmons on and off the court. If James doesn’t come to Philadelphia, the Sixers do not believe it would be because of any concerns about their on-court future.

Reading too much into what appears to be veiled hostility over James’ interest in the Lakers is of no particular use here.

If Philadelphia is the right fit for James, something like this won’t dissuade him from signing. And if James respects Embiid as Neubeck reports, any additional wrinkles to their relationship could be easily smoothed out.